Seriously considering starting a TDF trip on my F650. Anyone know about storage options south of the border???

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2015 Shipped by container to Chile, stored in Montevideo, Uruguay at Willy's Moto's downtown.
2016 Montevideo to TDF and back to Santiago, stored with a friend.
2017 Santiago to Lima, Peru, currently stored with Motos Del Peru downtown Lima.

I'd like to pose some more specific questions for anyone on the Ride, Store, FLY model. I currently trailer my bike across country. All the way from Mid Atlantic region. So, a very long way.

I live in northern Virginia, and will be heading out on my third trip out west. I trailer my dual-sport bike. I usually ride for about 3 weeks to make trip worth it. I am heading out in about 10 days and need some help with these questions. I am thinking about repositioning my bike permanently out west and flying out to it next time. This will also give me opportunity to ride a couple of shorter trips per year. Since, I plan on doing ID BDR loop, I am thinking of positioning ( storing ) my bike ( WRR ) in Salt Lake City, UT.

QUESTIONS:

- My bike is registered, insured, and tagged in Virginia. It that going to be a problem?? Do I violate any laws back home ( place of residence ) or in one of the western states like Idaho, Utah, Colorado, Nevada, Arizona?

- My insurance company ( State Farm ) is telling me I should find a local agent if I plan to store my bike for long time. Anyone else have issues with insurance in one state and bike being stored at another?

- So, far I have read two inmates experiencing theft of all gear and bike from public storage. So, how does one give storage place and management the "sniff test" on short notice?

- What are some other alternatives to public storage?

- What size storage place do I need for two dual-sport bikes and couple of large duffle size bags with gear and camping gear?

- Best way to keep gear and clothing from moisture on ground level storage?

- Salt Lake City sounds like storage central for bikes and hot spot for theft. So, what other alternative places around Utah, Arizona, Nevada, New Mexico?

- What portion on ADV inmates do you think use this Ride, Store, and Fly model?

- Does anyone know if ADV forum has a specific place for inmates looking for storage? With some economic incentive :)

- Most public storage will or do not have outage to put a battery tender on bike. So, how do you get around dead battery?

- I cannot think of anything else other than a giant trash bag for storing gear to keep it dry and away from moisture? I cannot back another big duffle on bike each trip. Any thoughts?

- How do you deal with oil change and getting rid of gasoline at public storage / end of trip?

I've done some preliminary analysis of economics of trailing bike vs. Ride, store, Fly model. For me the cost is about same across U.S.A. I may save a few days over trailing car out from Virginia. However, sounds I need time with logistics to bike, maintenance, buffer days at end of trip to make sure I don't miss return flight. Also a few days potentially for repositioning bike with U-Hual for start of next trip. Any thoughts?

Re SLC - Do a google search -- lots of options, including an AirBnB type site -- mostly with people renting garage space. Looks like it will cost +$100 per month -- seems expensive to me? I'd also call a few dealers -- many in my area offer storage, not sure of price.

For 'stuff' the garbage bag idea works. If you're planning on more long term rental, you might consider buying plastic storage containers at Wmart or Home Depot -- $10 each for pretty good size and sturdy ones.

Fluids will be a problem at public storage places -- doubt if they will be able to help. However most quick oil change places will take waste oil (and whatever else you pour into the container) for free or a small fee.

U-Haul and PODS others have containers that you can rent that will fit a bike and gear -- might be a good option, although probably not the least expensive one.

I'm a Florida resident, bike is registered in Florida, insured in Florida. No inconsistency there that I'm concerned about or aware of. My bike has been 'away' for about 20 months now . . . I've been out riding twice this year . . . March and June, I'll be back in October.

Both incidents I've heard about theft involve SLC, maybe something to do with the crime there? I've felt good about the places I've stored my bike some recommended by other ADV'ers, some not. Some bike dealerships may keep your bikes/gear; I've heard of others that like this option.

I think 5x10 will fit two dual sport bikes and some gear. Watch out for storage that may be listed as one size, but actual dimensions are smaller. Also be sure to check door size.

I've never had issue with keeping things dry, but I grab some garbage bags at a grocery store to keep from being so dusty. I guess the location makes a big difference here. Not much stays behind except bike, camping gear, helmet, and boots . . . these do fine in tightly wrapped garbage bags for me, but I've been mostly in the dry southwest.

I've not stored in Utah or Nevada, bike is currently in ABQ and previously in Arkansas and ELP. I've sometimes found places from other inmates and sometimes by internet. Sometimes I just get what I get and hope for the best; so far, so good.

I think this is a small percentage of ADV'ers . . . wouldn't have any idea of actual numbers, but there are several ongoing RR's of folks doing this . . . including my own. I also don't know of any threads or other 'clearinghouse' for storage units, collection of info, etc. There are a couple of threads like this, but not a ton of info. You might google on the term "chaptering".

I've done oil changes at Wal-Mart with good success, buy the oil and stuff there . . . drain, refill, hand them the old oil. All oil change places have to take you old oil and if you explain your situation, may work with you as well. I try to build in short days here and there for maintenance, etc. On a long trip, I need these anyway to rest myself. Same with the end of trip, gives me a chance to square the bike away, sort gear, etc. Take an inventory of everything you leave in storage when you leave so there is no guessing what is there and what isn't.

This is reasonable cost-wise option for me . . . I've not watched my pennies too close and have made some travel mistakes. I learn plenty each time out including how to save a buck or two. Storage fees vary widely as do fights, hotels, etc.

Added a few thoughts below based on my experiences over the last few years. Hope someone can find something in them to be useful as I believe FSR to be a great concept.

QUESTIONS:

- My bike is registered, insured, and tagged in Virginia. It that going to be a problem?? Do I violate any laws back home ( place of residence ) or in one of the western states like Idaho, Utah, Colorado, Nevada, Arizona?

This hasn't been an issue so far. Not seeing it being much different than if you rode it there. YMMV NH has motorcycle inspections. That is the only thing I think about on occasion but it goes a way pretty quickly. I'm told that if I lose too much sleep I could have it inspected in another state and reinspected when it gets back home (not likely to happen any time soon).

- My insurance company ( State Farm ) is telling me I should find a local agent if I plan to store my bike for long time. Anyone else have issues with insurance in one state and bike being stored at another?

Obviously you want to be covered but if you are moving your bike around...again...I sort of go with the "What if I rode it here?" plan.

- So, far I have read two inmates experiencing theft of all gear and bike from public storage. So, how does one give storage place and management the "sniff test" on short notice?

Not sure you truly can. Don't know the details of the thefts you have read about - inside jobs? All the units I've used are seemingly secure. Codes etc to enter. Cameras everywhere. Perhaps try not to be too conspicuous upon arrival?

I will admit that there has been at least one unit I put the bike in and wondered if I'd ever see it again but that's why I have insurance. Sometimes you just have to take the leap.

- What are some other alternatives to public storage?

My riding partner's wife's uncle...but it's a haul from Nogales to to ID.

Personally, I like the storage units for the simple reason that it doesn't involve anyone else's schedule. If I fly in in the middle of the night I can get to my bike and go about my travels. 24/7/365 access.

Sadly, I'd be more concerned about my bike in a dealership than a self storage unit.

- What size storage place do I need for two dual-sport bikes and couple of large duffle size bags with gear and camping gear?

If you get a little creative I'd think you could get 2 WRR sized bikes into a 5Xwhatever sized unit. You may have to back one in and/or put a block under the kickstand to stand them up a bit but I think it could be done.

As for your gear...stack it up on the bike off the floor. Bring some parachute chord and some hooks maybe to hang stuff. These units are typically metal shells with something you can hook to.

- Best way to keep gear and clothing from moisture on ground level storage?

See above. If you have hard bags they can also be used - stuff inside and/or stuff stashed on top of them if they are removed - which may be necessary to get the bike in the door. (See other poster's comment about door sizes and styles.)

- Salt Lake City sounds like storage central for bikes and hot spot for theft. So, what other alternative places around Utah, Arizona, Nevada, New Mexico?

I've found Vegas to be a nice hub for a bit. Plenty of flights, plenty of storage, plenty of lodging and transportation before and after the ride.

Hotel shuttles are handy and if you ask nicely they'll often pick you up and take you to your bike.

- What portion on ADV inmates do you think use this Ride, Store, and Fly model?

Tiny. Very tiny...but I don't pay too much attention to what the other kids are doing. Otherwise I'd be missing out on what may be the only way I can pull off an extended trip like this right now.

- Does anyone know if ADV forum has a specific place for inmates looking for storage? With some economic incentive :)
No idea. Tent space?

- Most public storage will or do not have outage to put a battery tender on bike. So, how do you get around dead battery?

Disconnect it. It hasn't been an issue. Even the time I forgot to disconnect it. 3-9 month intervals for me.

edit: Having said that I do have one of these on the bike along with a trickle charger.

Not all units have a light either so I guess it's good that I haven't needed it.

Shelf life of gasoline is a bigger issue these days. Maybe my imagination but fuel injection seems to cure part of this. (So far no issues on FI bike but carbed bike was a bit hard starting even with the same treatment...BUT...it was also a year between starts.)

- I cannot think of anything else other than a giant trash bag for storing gear to keep it dry and away from moisture? I cannot back another big duffle on bike each trip. Any thoughts?

Hasn't been an issue so far - particularly out west. Everything is off the floor and on the bike somehow, though.

A cover for the bike is handy more for the dust build up. They make some out of very thin material that packs small. Also like to use it at hotels. Keeps the honest people honest.

- How do you deal with oil change and getting rid of gasoline at public storage / end of trip?

Get over any aversion to... 'Harley" shops. I've found that the independents are the most willing to work with you if you're looking for a place to do or have some work done along the way. Any type of independent.

Gasoline. So far I haven't needed to get rid of any. A does of stabilizer and Seafoam has been used each time, though. The Nogales DR got avgas the last round but it sits for a year in between Mexico runs. We'll see if that works. I'm told it has a 3-5 year shelf life.

I've done some preliminary analysis of economics of trailing bike vs. Ride, store, Fly model. For me the cost is about same across U.S.A. I may save a few days over trailing car out from Virginia. However, sounds I need time with logistics to bike, maintenance, buffer days at end of trip to make sure I don't miss return flight. Also a few days potentially for repositioning bike with U-Hual for start of next trip. Any thoughts?

Initial thought is why not just ride it from Virginia? Work your way out west.

For me it isn't about cost...and for the record I am very far from being independently wealthy.

It's about time.

That cross country haul each time whether on a bike or in a tow vehicle just doesn't fit.

Start with everything fresh and you will figger out the maintenance logistics along the way.

Road Angels. They're out there and if you let them they will find you when you need them.

Re SLC - Do a google search -- lots of options, including an AirBnB type site -- mostly with people renting garage space. Looks like it will cost +$100 per month -- seems expensive to me? I'd also call a few dealers -- many in my area offer storage, not sure of price.

For 'stuff' the garbage bag idea works. If you're planning on more long term rental, you might consider buying plastic storage containers at Wmart or Home Depot -- $10 each for pretty good size and sturdy ones.

Fluids will be a problem at public storage places -- doubt if they will be able to help. However most quick oil change places will take waste oil (and whatever else you pour into the container) for free or a small fee.

U-Haul and PODS others have containers that you can rent that will fit a bike and gear -- might be a good option, although probably not the least expensive one.

I'm a Florida resident, bike is registered in Florida, insured in Florida. No inconsistency there that I'm concerned about or aware of. My bike has been 'away' for about 20 months now . . . I've been out riding twice this year . . . March and June, I'll be back in October.

Both incidents I've heard about theft involve SLC, maybe something to do with the crime there? I've felt good about the places I've stored my bike some recommended by other ADV'ers, some not. Some bike dealerships may keep your bikes/gear; I've heard of others that like this option.

I think 5x10 will fit two dual sport bikes and some gear. Watch out for storage that may be listed as one size, but actual dimensions are smaller. Also be sure to check door size.

I've never had issue with keeping things dry, but I grab some garbage bags at a grocery store to keep from being so dusty. I guess the location makes a big difference here. Not much stays behind except bike, camping gear, helmet, and boots . . . these do fine in tightly wrapped garbage bags for me, but I've been mostly in the dry southwest.

I've not stored in Utah or Nevada, bike is currently in ABQ and previously in Arkansas and ELP. I've sometimes found places from other inmates and sometimes by internet. Sometimes I just get what I get and hope for the best; so far, so good.

I think this is a small percentage of ADV'ers . . . wouldn't have any idea of actual numbers, but there are several ongoing RR's of folks doing this . . . including my own. I also don't know of any threads or other 'clearinghouse' for storage units, collection of info, etc. There are a couple of threads like this, but not a ton of info. You might google on the term "chaptering".

I've done oil changes at Wal-Mart with good success, buy the oil and stuff there . . . drain, refill, hand them the old oil. All oil change places have to take you old oil and if you explain your situation, may work with you as well. I try to build in short days here and there for maintenance, etc. On a long trip, I need these anyway to rest myself. Same with the end of trip, gives me a chance to square the bike away, sort gear, etc. Take an inventory of everything you leave in storage when you leave so there is no guessing what is there and what isn't.

This is reasonable cost-wise option for me . . . I've not watched my pennies too close and have made some travel mistakes. I learn plenty each time out including how to save a buck or two. Storage fees vary widely as do fights, hotels, etc.

Added a few thoughts below based on my experiences over the last few years. Hope someone can find something in them to be useful as I believe FSR to be a great concept.

QUESTIONS:

- My bike is registered, insured, and tagged in Virginia. It that going to be a problem?? Do I violate any laws back home ( place of residence ) or in one of the western states like Idaho, Utah, Colorado, Nevada, Arizona?

This hasn't been an issue so far. Not seeing it being much different than if you rode it there. YMMV NH has motorcycle inspections. That is the only thing I think about on occasion but it goes a way pretty quickly. I'm told that if I lose too much sleep I could have it inspected in another state and reinspected wen it gets back home (not likely to happen any time soon).

- My insurance company ( State Farm ) is telling me I should find a local agent if I plan to store my bike for long time. Anyone else have issues with insurance in one state and bike being stored at another?

Obviously you want to be covered but if you are moving your bike around...again...I sort of go with the "What if I rode it here?" plan.

- So, far I have read two inmates experiencing theft of all gear and bike from public storage. So, how does one give storage place and management the "sniff test" on short notice?

Not sure you truly can. Don't know the details of the thefts you have read about - inside jobs? All the units I've used are seemingly secure. Codes etc to enter. Cameras everywhere. Perhaps try not to be too conspicuous upon arrival?

I will admit that there has been at least one unit I put the bike in and wondered if I'd ever see it again but that's why I have insurance. Sometimes you just have to take the leap.

- What are some other alternatives to public storage?

My riding partner's wife's uncle...but it's a haul from Nogales to to ID.

Personally, I like the storage units for the simple reason that it doesn't involve anyone else's schedule. If I fly in in the middle of the night I can get to my bike and go about my travels. 24/7/365 access.

Sadly, I'd be more concerned about my bike in a dealership than a self storage unit.

- What size storage place do I need for two dual-sport bikes and couple of large duffle size bags with gear and camping gear?

If you get a little creative I'd think you could get 2 WRR sized bikes into a 5Xwhatever sized unit. You may have to back one in and/or put a block under the kickstand to stand them up a bit but I think it could be done.

As for your gear...stack it up on the bike off the floor. Bring some parachute chord and some hooks maybe to hang stuff. These units are typically metal shells with something you can hook to.

- Best way to keep gear and clothing from moisture on ground level storage?

See above. If you have hard bags they can also be used - stuff inside and/or stuff stashed on top of them if they are removed - which may be necessary to get the bike in the door. (See other poster's comment about door sizes and styles.)

- Salt Lake City sounds like storage central for bikes and hot spot for theft. So, what other alternative places around Utah, Arizona, Nevada, New Mexico?

I've found Vegas to be a nice hub for a bit. Plenty of flights, plenty of storage, plenty of lodging and transportation before and after the ride.

Hotel shuttles are handy and if you ask nicely they'll often pick you up and take you to your bike.

- What portion on ADV inmates do you think use this Ride, Store, and Fly model?

Tiny. Very tiny...but I don't pay too much attention to what the other kids are doing. Otherwise I'd be missing out on what may be the only way I can pull off an extended trip like this right now.

- Does anyone know if ADV forum has a specific place for inmates looking for storage? With some economic incentive :)
No idea. Tent space?

- Most public storage will or do not have outage to put a battery tender on bike. So, how do you get around dead battery?

Disconnect it. It hasn't been an issue. Even the time I forgot to disconnect it. 3-9 month intervals for me.

Shelf life of gasoline is a bigger issue these days. Maybe my imagination but fuel injection seems to cure part of this. (So far no issues on FI bike but carbed bike was a bit hard starting even with the same treatment...BUT...it was also a year between starts.)

- I cannot think of anything else other than a giant trash bag for storing gear to keep it dry and away from moisture? I cannot back another big duffle on bike each trip. Any thoughts?

Hasn't been an issue so far - particularly out west. Everything is off the floor and on the bike somehow, though.

A cover for the bike is handy more for the dust build up. They make some out of very thin material that packs small. Also like to use it at hotels. Keeps the honest people honest.

- How do you deal with oil change and getting rid of gasoline at public storage / end of trip?

Get over any aversion to... 'Harley" shops. I've found that the independents are the most willing to work with you if you're looking for a place to do or have some work done along the way. Any type of independent.

Gasoline. So far I haven't needed to get rid of any. A does of stabilizer and Seafoam has been used each time, though. The Nogales DR got avgas the last round but it sits for a year in between Mexico runs. We'll see if that works. I'm told it has a 3-5 year shelf life.

I've done some preliminary analysis of economics of trailing bike vs. Ride, store, Fly model. For me the cost is about same across U.S.A. I may save a few days over trailing car out from Virginia. However, sounds I need time with logistics to bike, maintenance, buffer days at end of trip to make sure I don't miss return flight. Also a few days potentially for repositioning bike with U-Hual for start of next trip. Any thoughts?

Initial thought is why not just ride it from Virginia? Work your way out west.

For me it isn't about cost...and for the record I am very far from being independently wealthy.

It's about time.

That cross country haul each time whether on a bike or in a tow vehicle just doesn't fit.

Start with everything fresh and you will figger out the maintenance logistics along the way.

Road Angels. They're out there and if you let them they will find you when you need them.

And you will need them.

Let us know how you make out.

Thanks.

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Very helpful tips. From last few replies, sounds like no issues keeping my DMV registration and insurance where I live ( VA ). Then just deal with safety inspection where bike resides at start of next trip. Like you said, technically I am only a vacationer / visitor as I roll my bike out of storage. No different than riding into state. I checked some DMV websites to double check. The language is mostly targeted at non-residents temporarily living or working in the western state.

First leg was New Hampshire to Florida. Seven days to get there. Dubbed around through the Outer Banks, etc along the way. Then spent a little time in Florida visiting friends and family.

Leg #2 is a jaunt down to the Keys this winter. Maybe some more exploration of Florida. (edit: dropped off by a relative to collect bike after being picked up at the airport then after the trip left the bike in Birmingham)

Leg #3 is still up in the air. Considering a return route through the BRP or maybe take a left on our way out of Florida. (My preferred plan.) But it's been a great way for us to test the waters - see what works for us and what doesn't. (edit: took that left and kept right on going)

...

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As noted above, friends and relatives were involved in the first and second legs of the trip.

At the end of the second leg - in February - the bike was parked at a storage unit just as in the first leg. However, there was no one there but the locals to assist in any way should assistance be needed. Flew home for a few months. Then flew back to collect the bike again in May.

This is the strange part. Arriving back in Birmingham and getting on the bike it was as if it was parked the day before and the trip was continuing without any interruption.

Each of the legs afterwards were the same way.

The trip plays as one continuous journey in the mind. The breaks in between just don't seem to interfere with that even though it's been 7 separate legs over the course of a few years now.

There's an interesting phenomenon that has happened along the way. Maybe others have also experienced this...maybe not.

As noted above, friends and relatives were involved in the first and second legs of the trip.

At the end of the second leg - in February - the bike was parked at a storage unit just as in the first leg. However, there was no one there but the locals to assist in any way should assistance be needed. Flew home for a few months. Then flew back to collect the bike again in May.

This is the strange part. Arriving back in Birmingham and getting on the bike it was as if it was parked the day before and the trip was continuing without any interruption.

Each of the legs afterwards were the same way.

The trip plays as one continuous journey in the mind. The breaks in between just don't seem to interfere with that even though it's been 7 separate legs over the course of a few years now.

I've kept my bike in various storage unit places out west, never an issue or question. I'm keeping my new Husky in a storage facility in Jersey City as i type this, again, no issues or concerns. You can (and probably should) add your own lock to the door, and disconnecting the battery is standard procedure as well.

Ya know those places have close circuit monitors right? Pretty tough to get away with a theft from there.

As far as registration/insurance; I kept for NJ registered and insured KTM out west for three years, never brought it home. the NJ plate seemed to be a conversation starter when traveling around; after a while, it got tiring having to explain it.

I ended up selling my 1190 ADV for personal reasons, kind of regretting it a bit. Was awesome to fly out and have all my riding and camping gear already on the bike. Two bag liners (carry on) in the side cases, reconnect the battery, and off i went

Flying to Vancouver Island and renting a V-strom for a week; have no idea if my stuff will fit in the cases ;-/

I've kept my bike in various storage unit places out west, never an issue or question. I'm keeping my new Husky in a storage facility in Jersey City as i type this, again, no issues or concerns. You can (and probably should) add your own lock to the door, and disconnecting the battery is standard procedure as well.

Ya know those places have close circuit monitors right? Pretty tough to get away with a theft from there.

As far as registration/insurance; I kept for NJ registered and insured KTM out west for three years, never brought it home. the NJ plate seemed to be a conversation starter when traveling around; after a while, it got tiring having to explain it.

I ended up selling my 1190 ADV for personal reasons, kind of regretting it a bit. Was awesome to fly out and have all my riding and camping gear already on the bike. Two bag liners (carry on) in the side cases, reconnect the battery, and off i went

Flying to Vancouver Island and renting a V-strom for a week; have no idea if my stuff will fit in the cases ;-/

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Curious what it costs to rent a V-strom for a week up there.

Definitely your own lock. I like a heavy duty combination lock purely for the reason I won't forget to bring the key with me. (Though I do recall having to get creative with getting it on the hasp at least one time but did manage to get it on there.)

Note it's BC, so provincial taxes are also up there. For at 78¢/US dollar, its still not a bad deal. Helmet rentals are included too. Vancouver location is more section, some very nice ones too (like the S1000xr and GS Adv.)

Good to see @Rhode trip checking in here, they've been doing this awhile and their rides/reports have been very useful and inspiring to me! My project trip was kind of planned as a way that I could do one 'big' ride, so it definitely has a continuous feel to it. I still have a hard time feeling comfortable for the first 2-3 days of each leg until I settle in. Then as the segment nears it's conclusion, I hate that I've got to go home already! First world problems to be sure!

I'm considering this option for a Latin America trip. Right now the plan would be from El Paso or another border town to Tierra Del Fuego over a few years as I only have 5 weeks vacation a year and would probably use 3 weeks annually. I assumed I'd find a RR link in here for something similar. Does anyone have a link, info or suggestions?

I would be packing light and taking a proper dirt bike either the 2007 KTM 400XC-W that I currently have. Would it be trouble to take a bike that isn't factory street legal but plated in the state I live in?

No problem with "street legal" With a US registered bike. All they care about is the current registration in your name.

Your issue will be where you leave the bike during your layovers. Temporary vehicle permits typically expire within a few months each entry. You just have to make sure that you get back to the bike to export it out before the permit expires.

No problem with "street legal" With a US registered bike. All they care about is the current registration in your name.

Your issue will be where you leave the bike during your layovers. Temporary vehicle permits typically expire within a few months each entry. You just have to make sure that you get back to the bike to export it out before the permit expires.

Dan

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Something I have never thought about, what happens if the bike suffers a failure beyond repair? I have heard some countries require pretty steep import fees. Just have the bike towed to the nearest border and push it into the area between the two customs offices and leave it? Kind of a joke but kind of serious.

No problem with "street legal" With a US registered bike. All they care about is the current registration in your name.

Your issue will be where you leave the bike during your layovers. Temporary vehicle permits typically expire within a few months each entry. You just have to make sure that you get back to the bike to export it out before the permit expires.

Dan

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I hadn't even thought of that potential pitfall..... There's a ton of research to be done it sounds like! When you mention a few months, are we talking 4-6 months or less?